Penned by Calvin Luk, the young Aussie responsible for the 1 Series LCI, the F48 X1 is not only the first front-wheel drive X-car, but also a preview of the future BMW design language. The first BMW X1 was launched in 2009 and as of September 2013, approximately 500,000 models were sold worldwide. 64,000 units were sold solely in the United States.

The new 2016 BMW X1 has grown quite a bit over the previous model, sprouting 53 millimeters in height, with a 36 millimeter raise in the front seating position, to give the X1 a more commanding view of the road. This increase in size, and switch to front-wheel drive architecture, has also given the X1 better interior space, to the tune of 37 millimeters more rear knee room and 85 liters more cargo space, bringing the total to 505 liters. With the rear seats folded down, the X1 has 1,550 liters of cargo space.

F48’s front-end is more muscular than the E84 X1, the massive kidney grille inspires confidence and sportiness, while the elongated headlights house the equally beautiful LED lights. The hood slopes downward more, which is also attributed to the taller ride height, and has creases in it to give the X1 a more sporting appearance. The rear of the new X1 sits more upright and it is also more massive than its predecessor; couple that with beautiful taillights and the new X1 is a beauty from any angle.